Intalco‑Ferndale Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Area Maintenance Plan

We propose to send EPA the revised air quality State Implementation Plan (SIP).

The revised SIP:

• Shows that the Intalco‑Ferndale Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Area has improved air quality and is meeting (attaining) the federal air quality standard for sulfur dioxide.
• Includes a 10‑year maintenance plan for the area.

The Intalco-Ferndale Sulfur Dioxide area is a 5.5-square mile area in Whatcom County around the site of the former Intalco aluminum smelter. The smelter permanently closed in 2023. No other areas in Washington are affected by this action.

The federal Clean Air Act requires a maintenance plan in order to redesignate a nonattainment area.

Document for review

• Washington State Implementation Plan (SIP) Revision:  Redesignation to Attainment and First 10‑Year Maintenance Plan for the Intalco‑Ferndale Sulfur Dioxide Nonattainment Area

Public hearing:

(requested by April 26, 2024)
May 14, 2024, 6 p.m. online
Register for the public hearing. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the public hearing.

Accommodations (including language interpretation, computer/internet access):
Call or text the number listed below (under questions).

To comment or request a public hearing, use one of the ways listed below.

Background

A State Implementation Plan (SIP) is a general cleanup plan for air.  It describes how Washington carries out, maintains, and enforces national air quality standards.

The SIP explains how Washington will lower air pollution from sources like transportation, wood smoke, and industry. Sections of the plan are customized to meet regional air quality needs.